Power-law type rate equation for propane ATR over Pt–Ni/Al2O3 catalyst

Kinetics of autothermal reforming (ATR) of propane on bimetallic Pt–Ni catalyst supported over δ-Al2O3 is investigated at 673 K with the purpose of obtaining an easy-to-implement power-law type rate equation. The rate expression is proposed for conditions extending up to 20% propane conversion and has reaction orders of 1.64, 2.44 and −0.59 in propane, oxygen and steam partial pressures, respectively. Parameters estimated by non-linear regression analysis in the MATLAB™ environment can be reliably used for propane ATR in the steam-to-carbon ratio range of 2.0–3.0 and carbon-to-oxygen ratio range of 3.0–5.4. The apparent activation energy is calculated as 46 ± 4 kJ mol−1 in the 653–693 K interval.

Graphical abstractFigure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights► Autothermal reforming of propane over Pt–Ni bimetallic catalyst. ► Power-law type rate equation was developed between 653 and 693 K. ► Positive reaction orders with respect to propane and oxygen. ► Rate of reaction is slightly inhibited by steam partial pressure.